Sunday, August 21, 2016

"Children growing up in an atmosphere where beauty is considered an important part of daily life cannot help being inspired to develop their own original ideas in these areas, nor can they help being prepared to live aesthetically themselves. There is a 'togetherness' in sharing a prepared table that even very small children feel, although they cannot express it verbally."

Edith Schaeffer

These are words that guided me on my homemaking journey at the beginning of my child rearing years. Mrs. Schaeffer speaks so eloquently when she writes; she creates word pictures of simple things that speak so profoundly to our souls. In another place she shares that every dinner table should have a centerpiece that is vibrant, interesting, and transitions with the seasons and experiences of life. Such a focal point provides family members with objects of nature and beauty to enjoy. Flowers, moss, rocks, shells, seed pods, and more can be gathered outdoors and be brought inside to make creative points of interest without added expense or fuss. Including children and grandchildren in the process might mean adding points of color found in small toys like Lego's, plastic figures, or miniature tea sets. An atmosphere where creativity is encouraged can inspire a child and set the stage for original ideas as they grow through life.

Sunday, April 17, 2016

It's that time of year! Spring has erupted and the lilacs are in full bloom! I can see the row of lilac trees in the front yard, all abloom in several shades of purple. They were started from shoots taken from my in-laws home more than twenty years ago. They have thrived and ended up growing so tall that I could no longer reach the blossoms. Last year we decided to trim them to a manageable height, and although we were careful to trim at the right stage of their bloom cycle, I will admit to being somewhat fearful that we wouldn't have blossoms this year. But they are more abundant than ever! A walk down lilac row is filled with their fragrance. Extraordinary! Just wonderful. And with the gentle hum of bees as they work their magic among the blossoms. Someone is going to be fortunate to have some lilac honey in their hive! It's the little blessings, like lilacs, sweet fragrance, and beauty that make life happy and complete.

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Welcome to Gracious Hospitality

Welcome to Gracious Hospitality where we celebrate family, home and garden. Please pull up a comfortable chair and sip on a cuppa tea with me as we share conversation, recipes, ideas, and thoughts on creating a welcoming home.

Association of Tea Bloggers

Living Creatively with Purpose

Living artistically, aesthetically, and creatively means that we develop sensitivity to beauty and use it to create an environment that nurtures those around us. Homemaking arts provide an outlet for the creator and provides nurture and a cocoon of tranquility for others.The beauty, organization, and development of the home environment is enhanced by a gracious, gentle spirit of hospitality - the final brush-stroke on the palette of a beautiful home.